Hundreds of North Sea workers may be prohibited from flying to offshore locations as new regulations impose a strict weight limit for helicopter travel. Starting November 1, personnel must weigh no more than 19.5 stone (approximately 273 pounds) in their work clothing and footwear. This measure is intended to ensure that individuals can be safely winched to safety in emergency situations.
Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) has indicated that as many as 800 staff currently exceed this limit, putting their ability to fly to work at risk. Some workers have reportedly resigned from their positions rather than comply with the new weight requirements. However, the number of affected employees has significantly decreased since the rules were first announced, down from over 2,200 workers who were above the threshold previously.
Graham Skinner, OEUK’s health, safety and security manager, stated that the number of workers still needing to lose weight is between 500 and 800. He noted that those affected are actively working to meet the new standard. "On November 1, if a worker turns up at the heliport over 124kg, they will not be able to go to work," Skinner said.
While most workers are reportedly making efforts to comply, some have chosen to leave their jobs. Dr. Niyi Adeleke, an occupational health physician based in Aberdeen, commented that a small number of individuals have decided to pursue other career paths rather than adhere to the weight restrictions. "There are people who work out in the gym regularly and say they are not going to trade this for a job," he told BBC Scotland.
The new weight policy was implemented following warnings from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency. The agency highlighted that the rescue winches utilized in offshore emergencies have a maximum safe lifting capacity that could be compromised by heavier individuals. The Coastguard winch can lift a maximum of 39 stone, which accounts for the maximum worker weight, the rescuer's weight, a stretcher, and essential kit.
Industry data indicates that average body weights have increased over the past six decades. OEUK reported that the average weight of offshore workers has risen by nearly 1.5 stone since 2008. Skinner emphasized the safety rationale behind the new limits, explaining that a worker's weight can affect various aspects of their offshore duties, including travel, working at height, and confined spaces, as well as the feasibility of rescue operations using helicopter winches. "When we looked at all of the risks, we felt it was important to make sure that we didn’t have workers who we wouldn’t be able to rescue if the worst thing happened to them," he added.